A doe
The simile "a lovely face like a doe" is a vivid description used to convey the appearance of William Harrison Ainsworth. In this comparison, William's facial features are being likened to those of a doe which is a female deer known for its gentle, innocent, and often captivating appearance. By comparing William's face to that of a doe, the author suggests that he possesses a certain delicate and charming quality. This simile not only emphasizes his physical attractiveness but also hints at his approachability and perhaps even vulnerability as a doe is typically associated with grace and gentleness in nature.
A bobbin at the bottom of a sewing box
In the simile "buried under the weight of an entangling plot like a bobbin at the bottom of a sewing box" the author employs a vivid comparison to illustrate how the plot of the novel "Hilary St. Ives" becomes overwhelming and convoluted. By likening it to a bobbin at the bottom of a sewing box, the author conveys the idea that the plot is obscured by layers of complexity and entanglement just as a bobbin is often nestled beneath various threads and materials in a sewing box. This simile effectively communicates the notion that the novel's narrative has become tangled and difficult to follow, making it a challenging and confusing read for the audience.
The look of death about her
The metaphor "She had the look of death about her" describes the character's physical appearance and overall condition. It implies that the character appeared extremely ill, frail, and close to the end of her life. The metaphor suggests that the signs of her illness were so pronounced that they resembled the unmistakable and haunting image of someone nearing death. This metaphor serves to evoke a strong sense of sympathy and foreboding, emphasizing the character's vulnerability and the imminent inevitability of her passing.
A beaver
The simile "he looked like a beaver" is used to vividly describe the physical appearance of John De Morgan who is addressing the crowd. The comparison highlights the unique and somewhat comical features of his appearance. Beavers are known for their distinctive facial features particularly their prominent teeth and small, nervous, woodland creature-like appearance. By likening De Morgan to a beaver, the author conveys that he has a face with certain characteristics that resemble those of the animal which helps readers visualize his appearance and creates a sense of whimsy.
Money ran through his fingers
The simile "Money ran through his fingers like sand" illustrates how extravagantly and recklessly Tichborne handles his wealth. Like sand slipping through one's fingers with little retention, Tichborne's financial resources seem to dissipate quickly and without any prudence. This comparison emphasizes his wasteful spending habits and lack of financial responsibility, giving the reader a clear picture of his character and financial predicament.
